Nelson meets veterans almost every day, but said Pope is especially impressive.

"He gives 24/7. He gives in uniform. He gives out of uniform and he's a stand up guy," Nelson said. "He goes out in the community and he really goes above and beyond with the kids that really need a dad in an area that doesn't really have a lot of dads."

"Seriously? No way. We're going to give this to him!" Nelson exclaimed.

She surprised Pope inside the Army Career Center in Huntington Park.

"You are not only an outstanding soldier, but you go above and beyond in the community more than anybody that your peers know," Nelson said.

"You just pay it forward to all those that you meet. So it's our turn to pay it forward to you. On this Veterans Day, through the lovely gift of Channel 7 and ABC News we'd like to pay it forward to you," Nelson added.

Pope looked stunned.

"I'm shocked. I'm speechless. I thank you the community and thank you for the wonderful gift," he said.

Pope is a single father and plans on using the $500 to buy Christmas gifts for his 4-year-old daughter.

"It means a lot. It put a huge smile on my face," he said.

Pope hopes his story encourages everyone to pay it forward.

"Always give out of the kindness of your heart, go above and beyond and don't expect anything in return," said Pope.

Nelson hopes it serves as a reminder to thank veterans. "If everyone could go out in the community and find a hero and pay it forward every day," she said.